Berkshire Orthopedics LLC

A Division of Keystone Orthopaedic Specialists, LLC

Contact Us: 610-375-4949

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Dealing With Elbow Arthritis: Symptoms, Treatment and More

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There are several types of arthritis which can affect the elbow, including osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Common elbow arthritis symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness and reduced range of motion in the elbow joint. If severe, these symptoms may make it difficult for a patient to perform everyday activities which involve elbow movement, such as lifting or reaching for objects. Fortunately, there are several treatment options which can help relieve discomfort and improve elbow function.

Dealing With Elbow Arthritis: A Few Possible Treatment Options

If you are suffering from persistent, burdensome elbow arthritis symptoms, there are a number of treatments your orthopedic doctor may suggest considering. A few common ones include:

  • Rest and activity modification, which can help to prevent worsening symptoms
  • Over-the-counter pain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Heat and ice therapy, which is known to alleviate muscle stiffness and decrease swelling
  • Elbow splints and braces, which can help support the joint and reduce swelling
  • Cortisone injections, which can offer temporary pain relief

Typically, conservative treatment for elbow arthritis will be recommended before surgery. In the event that first-line treatments fail to address a patient’s elbow arthritis symptoms, however, open or arthroscopic elbow surgery may be the next option. Elbow arthroscopy may also be used to remove bone spurs in the early stages of elbow arthritis.

Trust Dr. Stephen Soffer for World-Class Elbow Care

Elbow arthritis is a common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 50. At any age, it can be very painful and may even compromise a patient’s ability to live an independent and fulfilling life.

If you are seeking lasting relief from elbow arthritis symptoms, it is important to see a qualified orthopedic doctor with extensive experience in diagnosing elbow issues and providing cutting-edge treatment. Dr. Stephen Soffer is a skilled and compassionate choice for patients in Reading, PA and the surrounding area.

Committed to helping patients effectively manage their symptoms, Dr. Soffer stays up to date on all the latest and most advanced treatments for elbow arthritis. Specializing in both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options, he helped to author the first textbook on minimally invasive elbow arthroscopy with Dr. James Andrews.

If you would like to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment to address your elbow symptoms with Dr. Soffer, call our office anytime at 610-375-4949.

What Is a SLAP Tear of the Shoulder & How Is It Treated?

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The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint consisting of several different muscles, bones and tendons. Surrounding the shoulder socket is the labrum, a fibrous ring of cartilage that helps to stabilize the joint. Although this tissue is quite strong, it can be injured through repetitive shoulder movement or acute trauma. One of the most common labral injuries is called a SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) tear. What is a SLAP tear, and what are the treatment options for this shoulder injury? Read on for a detailed overview.

What Is a SLAP Tear of the Shoulder?

As the name suggests, a SLAP injury affects the anterior (front) part of the labrum as well as the posterior (back) part. The biceps tendon may also be affected by a SLAP tear, as this injury occurs at the point where the bicep attaches to the labrum. Common symptoms of a SLAP tear include decreased shoulder strength and range of motion, pain with movement and a popping/locking sensation.

There are many scenarios which can lead to a SLAP tear of the shoulder. An acute SLAP injury may occur due to:

  • Forceful pulling, lifting or overhead movement
  • Shoulder dislocation
  • Falling onto an outstretched arm
  • Car accidents

Aside from these acute trauma-related causes, a SLAP tear may also be the result of wear and tear over time. Patients over the age of 30 often develop fraying or tearing in the labrum as part of the normal aging process. Further, individuals with an occupation or hobby that requires repetitive overhead movement are at a heightened risk for labral injuries.

How Is a SLAP Tear Treated?

Now that you know the answer to “what is a SLAP tear?” and how this injury might occur, you might be curious to learn about treatment options. Regardless of cause, SLAP tears are typically treated using nonsurgical methods to start. First-line treatments might include:

  • Rest – For minor tears, taking a break from activities can promote healing.
  • NSAIDs – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications can be highly effective in reducing swelling and pain in the shoulder joint.
  • Physical therapy – Exercises designed to improve range of motion and flexibility may also help to treat the symptoms of a SLAP tear. 

In the event that a patient fails to get relief from these methods, he or she may consider arthroscopic labral repair. This minimally invasive treatment allows the orthopedic surgeon to reattach the torn tissues without cutting through the shoulder muscles.

Find Relief with Shoulder Treatment from Dr. Soffer

Offering cutting-edge shoulder treatment for patients in and around Reading, PA, Dr. Stephen Soffer specializes in nonsurgical options for SLAP tears as well as arthroscopic labral repair. If you are living with lingering shoulder pain, call our office at 610-375-4949 to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment. As always, we are here to offer the treatment you need to get back to doing what you love.

What Is Involved in Rehab After Knee Replacement?

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rehab after knee replacement

Chronic knee conditions such as osteoarthritis can often be effectively managed with nonsurgical methods. If first-line treatments fail to offer sufficient relief from symptoms, however, a patient may consider knee replacement surgery. Following the surgeon-recommended guidelines for rehab after knee replacement is essential to speed recovery and maximize the chances of getting excellent long-term results from surgery.

What Is Involved in Rehab After Knee Replacement?

Before committing to partial or total knee replacement surgery, patients should understand what the rehabilitation process will entail. Here is the standard post-operative timeline:

  • The First 24 Hours After Surgery: Rehab after knee replacement should start shortly after surgery, while you are still in the hospital. It is crucial to begin strengthening your operated knee as soon as possible. Within 24 hours, you will be instructed to stand and walk using an assistive device.
  • Discharge from the Hospital: Within 1-2 days, you should begin to gain some strength and range of motion in your knee. As this occurs, you should aim to gradually increase your activity level and reduce reliance on your assistive device. Before being discharged to your home or a rehab facility, you should ideally be able to perform simple daily tasks on your own, walk with minimal assistance and bend your knee well.
  • Weeks 3-6: Once discharged, you will be instructed to perform physical therapy exercises which are specifically designed to further improve your knee strength and flexibility. During this period, you should be able to start walking longer distances and performing more activities without an assistive device. Assuming you’ve stuck to the suggested plan for rehab after knee replacement, you can expect to be experiencing far less swelling and inflammation by this point.
  • Weeks 7-11: As your knee strength continues to improve, you will likely be able to resume low-impact activities such as biking and swimming. Your physical therapist will assess your progress and adjust your exercise plan as needed.
  • Week 12 & Beyond: At the 12-week mark, you may very well feel fully or almost fully recovered, with little to no knee pain remaining. However, it is still important to keep in touch with your surgeon and physical therapist, at this point and moving forward. Be sure to get clearance before resuming more demanding activities, and don’t hesitate to let your doctor know if you begin to experience significant knee discomfort.

While no two patients will have the exact same recovery timeline, hopefully this gives you a general idea of what you can expect during rehab after knee replacement.

Discuss the Right Knee Treatment for You with Dr. Soffer

If you are suffering from persistent knee pain that is interfering with your life, Dr. Stephen Soffer can help you get relief. He excels in all of the latest knee treatments, including nonsurgical options as well as arthroscopic and open knee surgery.

When you visit him, Dr. Soffer will carefully consider your circumstances and use advanced diagnostic techniques to determine whether you are a good candidate for knee surgery at this time. If you are ready to schedule an appointment, call our office at 610-375-4949. We look forward to helping you regain healthy, normal knee function so that you can get back to living your life.

Does Stem Cell Therapy Work for Rotator Cuff Tears?

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does stem cell therapy work for rotator cuff tears

Stem cell therapy is an up-and-coming treatment with proven efficacy in relieving symptoms associated with a wide range of orthopedic injuries and conditions. Shoulder osteoarthritis and rotator cuff tears are among the shoulder issues which may be treated using stem cell therapy. If you are investigating treatment options for a torn rotator cuff, you might wonder: How does stem cell therapy work for rotator cuff tears, and am I a good candidate for this therapy?

Does Stem Cell Therapy Work for Rotator Cuff Tears?

If first-line methods like rest, medication and physical therapy do not provide adequate relief from rotator cuff symptoms, a patient might consider stem cell therapy. This treatment is often a viable choice for active individuals looking to avoid surgery and a lengthy recovery period. Here is a brief overview of what stem cell therapy entails and how it can help treat some rotator cuff tears:

  • How does stem cell therapy work for rotator cuff tears? This therapy involves the removal of stem cells from the patient’s own body, typically from bone marrow in the hip. The healing agents in the bone marrow are then combined and injected into the affected rotator cuff. This process may reduce pain and may improve shoulder function in those with partial rotator cuff tears. It does not heal full thickness rotator cuff tears to the bone. Only surgery achieves that.
  • Is stem cell therapy safe? Because it uses the patient’s own stem cells, stem cell therapy for rotator cuff tears carries low risk of tissue infection or rejection. Furthermore, there is minimal chance of serious or long-term side effects with this treatment option.
  • What is the difference between stem cell therapy and PRP injection? Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection is another nonsurgical treatment which may be used to reduce pain and improve shoulder function in those patients with rotator cuff tears. While similar, these two methods have some noteworthy differences. Namely, PRP therapy uses enriched blood platelets instead of stem cells.

Explore Shoulder Treatment Options with Dr. Soffer

Stem cell therapy has helped many patients get relief from treatment-resistant rotator cuff tears and other shoulder issues – without the need for surgery. If you are experiencing lingering shoulder discomfort, Dr. Soffer can help you find the best course of treatment for you. Specializing in all the most advanced surgical and nonsurgical shoulder treatments, including stem cell therapy, Dr. Soffer helps patients return to a pain-free lifestyle.

Are you ready to discuss your shoulder care options with our skilled and compassionate orthopedic doctor? Call us at 610-375-4949 to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment.

Partial Tear of Rotator Cuff: Diagnosis and Treatment

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Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common orthopedic injuries, particularly among active individuals. When a patient sustains a partial or complete rotator cuff tear, it can result in pain, weakness and restricted range of motion in the shoulder. Fortunately, the symptoms of a full or partial tear of rotator cuff tendons can often be alleviated with conservative methods.

Diagnosing a Torn Rotator Cuff

The appropriate course of treatment for a torn rotator cuff will depend on the nature of the tear, including its size, location and severity. In order to determine where rotator cuff damage is present and how severe it is, a sports medicine physician may use a number of diagnostic techniques. These include:

  • A thorough shoulder examination. The doctor will move and press on the shoulder in various areas to assess mobility, strength and overall functionality of the rotator cuff muscles.
  • Imaging such as an MRI or ultrasound. This will help the physician to determine precisely where damage is present and whether the rotator cuff tear is partial or complete.

Possible Treatments for a Partial Tear of Rotator Cuff

Generally speaking, patients who have sustained a partial tear of rotator cuff are typically able to get relief from their symptoms without surgery. There are a number of non-invasive treatment options which can help to promote healing of the rotator cuff.

For many patients, performing physical therapy exercises is a key step in making a full recovery from a partial thickness rotator cuff tear. Steroid injections and anti-inflammatory medications can also be of use for pain reduction and shoulder rehabilitation.

In the event that conservative methods fail to resolve a patient’s discomfort and restore strength/mobility to the shoulder joint, however, surgery may be suggested. In most cases, partial rotator cuff tears can be addressed with minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery. Depending on what percentage of the tendon is torn, surgical rotator cuff repair may or may not be needed.

Concerned About Lingering Shoulder Symptoms? See Dr. Soffer

If you suspect that you may have torn your rotator cuff, you’ll want to seek medical attention from a skilled orthopedic surgeon such as Dr. Stephen Soffer in Reading, PA. Specializing in the diagnosis of shoulder issues and creation of effective treatment plans, Dr. Soffer is a qualified choice for your care.

Whether your rotator cuff injury can be treated conservatively or requires surgery, you can count on Dr. Soffer to help you make a fast and full recovery. To schedule an appointment with him, call our 24-hour sports injury hotline at 610-375-4949.

How Can I Tell If I Tore My MCL? Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

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how can i tell if i tore my mcl

Commonly known as the MCL, the medial collateral ligament is a crucial component of the knee joint which provides stability and prevents the joint from becoming overly mobile. While this ligament is quite resilient, it can be torn through significant impact to the inside of the knee. MCL tears are common among athletes – especially those who play sports such as football or basketball. If you are experiencing knee discomfort following physical activity, you might ask: How can I tell if I tore my MCL?

How Can I Tell If I Tore My MCL? Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

The symptoms of a torn MCL will vary from patient to patient. However, there are some general signs which are characteristic of this common knee injury. An individual with an MCL tear may notice the following:

  • A popping sound when the injury is sustained
  • Pain (ranging from mild to severe depending on injury grade) on the inside of the knee
  • Instability, or feeling like the knee cannot bear weight and may give out
  • Knee stiffness
  • Trouble bending and straightening the affected leg
  • Swelling, which may spread to other parts of the knee joint

In case of a severe blow to the knee, other ligaments may be affected in addition to the MCL. For instance, the lateral collateral ligament (LCL), located on the outside of the knee, may also be damaged. Further, it is possible to sustain a combination anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and MCL injury. If multiple ligaments are damaged, the patient will likely experience pain in various parts of the knee joint.

If You Suspect an MCL Tear, Seek Care from Dr. Soffer

“How can I tell if I tore my MCL?” Our orthopedic surgeon is frequently asked this question. As outlined above, there are certain signs and symptoms which can point to an MCL tear. Ultimately, however, only a skilled sports medicine doctor can accurately diagnose a torn MCL. After all, the symptoms of an MCL tear may overlap with those of other knee conditions and injuries.

If you or your child is experiencing persistent knee discomfort, it is important to promptly seek care from an orthopedic expert. For world-class care in the Reading, PA area, patients rely on Dr. Stephen Soffer.

Through the use of cutting-edge techniques, Dr. Soffer will identify the injury or condition which is causing your symptoms. Then, he will recommend the most appropriate course of treatment based on your individual circumstances. Certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, Dr. Soffer specializes in MCL repair surgery as well as nonsurgical treatment methods.

If you would like to set up an appointment with Dr. Soffer, call our office at 610-375-4949. We look forward to helping you get on the road to recovery.

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